Fort Douaumont
One of the largest works, armed with the fortified belt, the centerpiece of defense around Verdun.
Built from 1885, it becomes by volume the first fort in the Verdun region in 1914.
Decommissioned in August 1915, he was partially disarmed and emptied of his garrison when, on February 21st, 1916, the Battle of Verdun began ...
The fort was bombed and fell to the Germans on February 25th, 1916, occupying it and using it as a logistics base and rest. Up to 3000 men will live there in promiscuity.
Dramatic events will take place there, especially on the night of May 8th, 1916. Fort Douaumont is then overcrowded, an accidental explosion of an ammunition depot ravaged the lower level of the fort, resulting in the death of 679 young Germans.
As a protective fortress, Fort Douaumont became their tomb.
Further attempts to recover the Fort in May and October will result in considerable losses in the French and German armies. On October 24th, 1916, the fort will be taken over by the Germans by the RICM and the African troops.
Periods and Opening Hours
Reopened on February 5th, 2024
- From February 5th to March 29th 2024 : 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
- From March 30th to September 22nd 2024 : 10:00 am - 6:30 pm
- From September 23rd to January 4th 2025: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
School group rates
- 1 € per pupil
- 1 free guide for 10 paying pupils
- 3 € per additional companion
Adult group rates
- 3 € per person
- Free for 20 paying people
- Guided tour package (on reservation): 50 € in French - 60 € in English or German
